Wigan Warriors have confirmed a strong 26-man squad for Friday night’s clash with Hull FC, as the DW Stadium prepares to host a special occasion in honour of one of the club’s modern greats, Liam Marshall. The fixture doubles as Marshall’s testimonial match, celebrating a decade of service from a player who has become synonymous with consistency, professionalism and success in cherry and white.
Marshall, a Wigan academy graduate, made his senior debut in 2016 and has since established himself as one of Super League’s most reliable wingers. With multiple major honours to his name, including Super League titles and Challenge Cup triumphs, the testimonial provides a fitting tribute to a player who has rarely let standards slip. Friday’s contest is expected to draw a large crowd, eager to salute Marshall while also getting an early look at Wigan’s preparations.
Head coach Matt Peet has named a near full-strength group for the occasion, blending experience with emerging talent. Senior figures such as Jai Field, Bevan French, Harry Smith and Luke Thompson are all included, underlining Wigan’s intent to approach the match with the seriousness of a competitive fixture rather than a ceremonial outing. Captain Liam Farrell also features, adding leadership to a squad packed with international pedigree.
In the forwards, Peet has plenty of options to rotate and assess combinations. The likes of Tyler Dupree, Patrick Mago and Ethan Havard provide size and power through the middle, while youngsters pushing for regular minutes will be keen to impress against Super League opposition. With the new season fast approaching, this match offers valuable game time and an opportunity to sharpen systems under match conditions.
The backs division also looks strong, with Marshall naturally headlining the selection. The winger will be hoping to mark his testimonial with a trademark finish, having built a reputation as one of the competition’s most efficient try-scorers. Around him, competition for places remains fierce, ensuring intensity levels should remain high despite the friendly status of the contest.
Hull FC arrive in Wigan with ambitions of their own, making the fixture more than just a celebration. The Black and Whites will view the match as a chance to test themselves against the reigning champions and gauge their progress ahead of the campaign. That added edge should ensure a competitive encounter, benefitting both sets of players and the spectators alike.
For Wigan, the testimonial also serves as a reminder of the club’s ability to produce and retain elite talent. Marshall’s journey from local prospect to established Super League star mirrors the pathway Wigan pride themselves on, and the evening will be as much about celebrating that culture as it is about the result.
While silverware is not on the line, the significance of the night should not be underestimated. Testimonial matches are rare in the modern era, and Marshall’s recognition reflects the respect he commands within the game. As Wigan Warriors run out against Hull FC, the focus will be split between performance and appreciation, but both promise to deliver an entertaining and memorable occasion.
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